The International Road Federation (IRF) joined the transport community on 16-18 November in Barcelona for the third edition of the Tomorrow.Mobility World Congress.

Supported by IRF and organised by EIT Urban Mobility and Fira Barcelona, Tomorrow.Mobility World Congress is a unique event focused on accelerating the delivery of sustainable and intelligent urban mobility. A gathering of experts and leaders of the mobility and transport industry where to exchange ideas and foster business. Hosted in the framework of Smart City Expo World Congress (SCEWC), this year’s edition saw the participation of over 134 countries, 800 cities, 577 speakers, and 25,300 in-person attendees.

From Micromobility to Public Transport, Mobility Service Providers, Automotion, Last Mile Logistics & E-Delivery, Seamless Transportation, Smart Infrastructures, and Energy Transition & Efficiency, the congress provided an opportunity for global experts, leading organisations, and innovators to delve into the future of mobility.

IRF was on the main stage for the session “Extreme Weather Events Call for Extreme Action in the Mobility Sector” to discuss solutions and strategies for cities to become climate change resilient and adaptive. “We need system thinking and leveraging digital systems to support and drive innovation and change” said Susanna Zammataro, IRF Director General. “Governments need to create a conducive environment for that to happen” she added. Mrs Zammataro mentioned obsolete procurement procedures, lack of adequate skills and knowledge, and project-by-project approach as the greatest barriers to the implementation of effective solutions that already exist.

Gonzalo Alcaraz, Deputy IRF Director General contributed to discussions around the transformative impact of smart road technology on Connected and Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs). Alcaraz took on the role of moderator during the session “Revolutionising Mobility: Role of Physical and Digital Infrastructure for CAVs”. The defining features of a “smart” road within the CAV framework, the challenges associated with seamlessly integrating physical and digital infrastructure for CAVs, and tangible real-world examples aimed at expediting the transition were some of the critical issues addressed during the session. Notable projects discussed included the groundbreaking AUGMENTED CCAM Project, of which the IRF is a partner, and the Online Training Planning for Autonomous Mobility, organised by the IRF in conjunction with FACTUAL and EIT Urban Mobility.

The International Road Federation is proud to partner with an event that aligns with its vision of an affordable, sustainable, and intermodal urban mobility accessible to all.